The government, through the Ministry of Infrastructure and the City of Kigali, has extended its informal settlement rehousing model to the Nyabisindu areas in Gasabo District. This development follows the completion of 688 housing units constructed under the Mpazi Rehousing Model in Gitega Sector, Nyarugenge District, as part of a broader strategy to upgrade informal settlements. The New Times looks at the key aspects of the Nyabisindu rehousing project. How the rehousing project will work The model involves contributions of land from residents, on which new units are built to accommodate more households. ALSO READ: Inside models to upgrade unplanned settlements in Kigali Landowners receive homes in the new village based on the value of the land they contributed and the number of old houses previously situated on that land. Four villages to benefit The initiative targets four villages—Nyabisindu, Amarembo I, Amarembo II, and Ibuhoro in Remera Sector—and aims to provide decent housing to hundreds of families currently living in vulnerable conditions. Decent housing for over 1,600 households The project will provide modern and decent housing to over 1,600 households. This follows the successful delivery of 688 housing units in Nyarugenge District under the Mpazi Rehousing Project. ALSO READ: Mpazi rehousing model to move more families from unplanned settlements Area of coverage, number of units, deadline The project site covers an area of 38.54 hectares, on which a total of 1,639 dwelling units will be constructed. The project is expected to be fully implemented within one year, according to officials. Key basic facilities expected The development will include residential areas, market spaces, schools, green zones, and access roads, all designed to promote inclusive and dignified urban living. ALSO READ: City of Kigali to use $70m to upgrade major unplanned settlements “This project reflects our commitment to sustainable urban transformation,” said the Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore. “We are not just building homes; we are restoring dignity, enhancing public infrastructure, and reducing existing informal settlements. Every Rwandan deserves a decent place to live. The Mayor of the City of Kigali, Samuel Dusengiyumva, said: “Nyabisindu marks a significant step in scaling up the Mpazi model across Kigali. In close collaboration with citizens, we are creating resilient communities where no one is left behind.” Residents of the old slum area said they were excited about the new project. “We have lived in old houses for years,” said Josiane Kanzayire, a resident of Nyabisindu. “Now, we see a future for our children. This is more than housing since it is a new life for our community. I was truly delighted by what I saw during my visit to the completed housing units in Mpazi, Gitega Sector,” she said.
